Thailand

Limits

Currency

Baht (THB; symbol ฿) = 100 satang. Notes are in denominations of ฿1,000, 500, 100, 50, 20 and 10. Coins are in denominations of ฿10, 5 and 1, and 50 and 25 satang.

Credit/Debit cards and ATMS

American Express, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted. ATMs are found in all major cities and almost all provincial banks.

Culture

The culture of Thailand has been greatly influenced by Buddhism, along with influences of Hinduism and also from neighbouring Myanmar and Laos. Chinese and Indian culture also influences Thai culture and cuisine.

Traditional visual arts in Thailand are greatly influenced by Buddhism although contemporary Thai art is a combination of the modern techniques along with traditional styles. Thai crafts include textiles and decorative items that bear the distinct Thai style.

Classical Thai architecture is found in the temples and royal palace buildings; the best examples of Thai architecture are the Grand Palace, the Wat Benchamabophit and Wat suthat temple, to name a few.

Emergency Services

• Police: 191

• Crime: 195

• Fire: 199

• Tourist Police: 1699

• Tourist Service Centre: 1155

Weather

Generally very hot, particularly between March and May. The monsoon season runs from June to October, when the climate is still hot and humid with torrential rains. The best time for travelling is November to February (cool season), although the southern islands are best from June to September.